So domestic, me.

I went on a domestic rampage today. I emptied out, cleaned and organized my cutlery drawer in the kitchen, swept the floors, and cleaned all the sinks. Then I baked some bread pretzels! I tried making half a recipe last night, and they turned out okay, but today, I really mastered the skill!!

They're really easy to make. I find it easier to make half the batch (6 pretzels) because the dough is really hard to knead. I need more muscles. I bet this is how German grandmas stay fit.

Here's how to make them

Bread Pretzels (makes 6)

1/2 package yeast
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm water
2 cups flour

Directions: Dissolve brown sugar salt and yeast in the warm water. Stir in flour and knead for 8 minutes until the dough is mooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl and cover to rise for 1 hour.
Combine 1 cup of water with 1 tbsp baking soda in a square baking pan.
When the dough has risen, cut it into 6 pieces. Roll each piece into a pencil-thin 3 ft. rope. Dip the rope into the baking soda and water mixture, and twist into a pretzel shape. Place the pretzels on a parchment covered baking sheet and let stand for 15-20 more minutes.
Bake at 450 F for about 8 minutes. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt.

Here's how they look at the end:



Variations: Sprinkle with sugar and cinnomon, or top with cheddar cheese, garlic butter and herbs. (these are the two kinds that i made)

HINT: When rolling out the ropes, they tend to shrink back. If you roll the first pretzel half way, move on to the second, then the third. By the time you finish the third rope, the first rope should be loose enough to roll out thinner.

Enjoy!